The Secretary for Transport and Public Works, Ao Man Long, stressed that the MSAR government would strive to achieve sustainable social and economic development in Macao. Mr. Ao's comments were made while addressing the World Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 26 August.

Mr. Ao pointed out that the World Summit was one of the most important international meetings after the "Earth Summit" held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. The Summit allowed governments and civic organizations to express opinions on social and economic development. He added that participation in such conferences helped to promote environmental protection in Macao.

The Secretary said that the MSAR Government was on track to achieve a balance between social development, economic growth and conserving natural recourses and the environment. He revealed that the authorities planned to be among the United Nations' "Global 500 Best" in the area of water resources. Working toward this goal would help increase the awareness of the Macao residents to preserve natural resources.